When you think of the word “bored,” what is the first thing that you think of that you want to do? It is probably watching Netflix, taking a nap, watching a YouTube video, or scrolling through social media. These are all easy ways to overcome your boredom, but it is far from being productive and could easily lead to more boredom. Time is precious, so free time should be utilized to its fullest. Here are 10 productive things to do the next time you find yourself bored.


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10 Things To Do When You Are Bored

1. Learn something new.

Learning is a great way to better yourself and will definitely cure your boredom. Read an article on something new. Learn a new language. Learn a new skill. Take a course on an interesting subject. Learn how to play an instrument.

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2. Get organized.

There are so many things that could use some tidying up whether it be in your house or in your life. Pick up around the house. Clean out the fridge and pantry. Make your bed. Make a schedule. Plan out your week. 

3. Set goals.

Whether they be big or small, you can always set new goals for yourself. Goals serve as great motivators for you to do more or to do better. You can set a goal as small as taking a walk every day or reading a new book every month. You can set a goal as big as traveling somewhere new or saving money. 

Related: Free Goal Setting Printable

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4. Meal prep.

Prepping meals is a great way to change your eating lifestyle into a healthier one. By preparing your meals ahead of time, it is easier to eat healthy and well-balanced meals. This also ensures that you won’t skip a meal or grab something unhealthy on the run. Meal prepping requires you to just cook all your meals at once too, so boredom can actually turn into a time saver. 

5. Read.

Finding a good book is a great way to escape from reality for a bit while bettering your mind at the same time. Reading helps strengthen your memory and brain while also entertaining you. 

6. Exercise.

Exercising is a great way to maintain your health and get into better shape. Exercising can come in any form that you choose, whether it be yoga, walking, jogging, hiking, pilates, dancing, biking, or swimming. You can exercise in the comfort of your own home or neighborhood, or you can join a gym or take classes. Exercising can cure boredom while making you healthier!!

7. Visit friends and family.

Life happens. Things come up randomly and it sometimes leads to distancing yourself from friends and family. Whenever you have some free time, visit some of them. Stop by just to say hi. Meet them for a cup of coffee. Bring them some homemade treats. Spend time with them. Like I said before, time is precious so spend it with the ones you love most.

8. Start a new hobby.

The word “hobby” might sound cliche, but hobbies are a great way to keep you entertained while doing something you truly enjoy. Uncover one of your hidden talents or find something that makes you happy. It is never too late to start something new.

9. Focus on yourself.

This one might not seem very productive, but it really is. We tend to ignore our own health and well-being, but it is extremely important. We should spend more time focusing on ourselves and our mental health. This could involve starting a journal or even pampering yourself for a bit. Use this time as “me time” and do whatever you think you need for yourself. Take a warm bubble bath. Make goals for yourself. Meditate. Take a walk. Just do something for yourself for once. 

10. Plan out new routines.

Most of us are separated into two categories of people: the go with flow people and the planners. For those that do not like to plan out everything, it is okay. Planning out new morning or evening routines does not mean you have to make a strict time schedule to follow. It simply means setting up specific things to do during that time period. For example, a morning routine might include setting a specific time to wake up and then giving yourself half an hour to yourself and an hour to get ready. It does not have to be anything strict or super-specific. 


Time is precious, so free time should be utilized to its fullest. Here are 10 productive things to do the next time you find yourself bored.

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